School Counsellor/Social Worker
- Provide general counselling for students years 7 - 12
- Permanent full time - term time
- Work with parents and teachers to provide support to student wellbeing
Welcome to the community of Abbotsleigh. Abbotsleigh is a Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12 Anglican day and Boarding school for girls located on the upper north shore in Wahroonga. Abbotsleigh girls love to learn and lead and are empowered to be independent, collaborative and courageous trailblazers who make a positive impact on our world today and tomorrow.
‘With education, women can do, or be, anything.’ (Miss Betty Archdale, Headmistress, 1958 – 1970)
Full-Time | Term Time Only | Wahroonga, NSW
Make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people. Join a leading independent school committed to student wellbeing and holistic education.
About the Role
Abbotsleigh is seeking a qualified and compassionate Counsellor/social worker to support students in Years 7–12. This pivotal role is part of our dedicated Wellbeing Team, working closely with staff, families, and external professionals to promote emotional, social, and academic wellbeing.
You’ll deliver short-term counselling, case management, and advocacy to support students in navigating personal and academic challenges. With a proactive approach grounded in early intervention and trauma-informed care, you’ll help foster a safe, inclusive, and empowering school environment where every student feels supported and equipped to thrive.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver individual and group counselling to students experiencing social, emotional, or behavioural challenges.
- Conduct assessments and develop tailored support plans.
- Collaborate with teachers, Year coordinators, and the Learning Support team to enhance student engagement.
- Liaise with families and external agencies to coordinate care and referrals.
- Respond to critical incidents and provide trauma-informed support.
- Contribute to wellbeing programs focused on resilience, emotional regulation, and study skills.
About You
You’re a skilled and empathetic professional with a passion for supporting adolescents. You build trust easily, communicate effectively, and thrive in collaborative environments. You’re committed to inclusive practice and align with Abbotsleigh’s Christian values.
Essential Criteria
- Degree in Social Work and eligibility for AASW membership.
- Experience working with adolescents and families from diverse backgrounds.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Current NSW Working With Children Check.
Desirable
- Experience in school or youth mental health settings.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed practice and adolescent development.
- Mandarin language skills (valued but not essential).
Why Join Abbotsleigh?
At Abbotsleigh, our staff are the heart of our vibrant learning community. We offer:
- A collaborative and supportive culture focused on professional growth.
- Extensive career development and wellbeing programs.
- Beautiful campus grounds near Wahroonga Village.
- Onsite exercise facilities, free parking, and easy access to public transport.
- Generous remuneration and staff fee discounts.
Abbotsleigh's Commitment to Child Protection
Abbotsleigh is a proud Child Safe Organisation, committed to safeguarding the safety, welfare, and well-being of all children and young people in our care. We are dedicated to creating an environment where every child feels safe, supported, and protected from abuse and harm.
How to Apply
Please submit your CV, cover letter, and contact details of two referees via link. Applications close 7 September 2025.
Please note: All applications will be screened for AI-generated content. Submissions identified as primarily AI-generated may be subject to additional verification or disqualification.
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